John McCain

While McCain focused largely on immigration reform, he began his discussion by addressing the recent Boston Marathon bombing.

The Arizona senator criticized the lack of cooperation between federal agencies, saying that had information been better shared between the FBI, CIA, and Department of Homeland Security, the bombing could have been prevented.

McCain, who found much support from the audience for his recent vote to support background checks for gun purchases, got mixed feedback about his stance on immigration reform as one of the members of the bipartisan group known as the Gang of Eight.

The immigration reform would put illegal immigrants on a 10-year probationary work period. Upon completion, immigrants would be allowed to apply for citizenship, but would first be subject to back taxes, background checks, and fines.

McCain stressed that employers would also be held liable for hiring illegal immigrants using an e-verify process.

The 76-year-old senator also touched on international issues such as the rising tensions in Syria, and the ongoing investigation into Bengazi, which he called "a cover up."

The discussion ended with McCain fielding questions from the audience. In attendance were members of the Oro Valley Council, town staff, area residents, and students from Basis.

A more detailed article will be published in The Explorer's May 8 edition.